Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS Review

Taking the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS for a Spin

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS is a classic piece of duty gear, renowned for its reliability and simplicity. It’s designed to securely hold two handgun magazines on a duty belt, offering quick access when seconds count.

As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve always appreciated Safariland’s commitment to quality and functional design. I needed a reliable and low-profile magazine pouch for my off-duty concealed carry setup that could also transition to range use.

My first impression upon unboxing was its robust construction and classic, no-nonsense design. The plain black finish exudes professionalism, and the pouch felt solid in my hands.

I considered other options like the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse mag pouch and the Galco DMC double mag carrier, but opted for the Safariland due to its proven track record with law enforcement and its ambidextrous design. It seemed like a more versatile and durable choice.

Initially, I was pleased with the overall build and classic design. I was eager to see if it lived up to its reputation for durability and ease of access under real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS was at the shooting range during a tactical training session. I ran drills involving rapid magazine changes and movement under simulated stress.

The pouch performed admirably even in the dusty conditions. The magazines were held securely, yet easily accessible for quick reloads.

The Safariland 77 required minimal break-in; it was comfortable and intuitive to use from the start. There were no major issues but the initial tightness required a few practice draws to smooth out.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 77 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to sweat, friction, and the elements.

The plain black finish has remained consistent, and the stitching remains tight and secure. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and grime.

Compared to cheaper nylon magazine pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 77 far surpasses them in both durability and retention. This pouch instills confidence that it will perform when needed most.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS

Specifications

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS is designed to fit belts up to 2.25″ wide, making it compatible with most standard duty belts. It’s available in plain black, basket weave, hi-gloss, and STX TACTICAL finishes to match various duty gear setups.

The pouch is ambidextrous, allowing for both left- and right-handed use. It specifically fits magazines for Sig Sauer (239, P-225), Smith & Wesson (3913, 3913LS, 3913NL, 3913TSW, 3914, 3914LS, 3953, 3953TSW, 3954), and Walther (P-38, P-7, P5) handguns.

These specifications are crucial because they ensure compatibility with common duty belts and popular handgun models. The ambidextrous design caters to a broader range of users.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to handgun magazines. Its retention is firm enough to prevent accidental magazine release, yet allows for smooth and efficient reloads.

The pouch’s main strength lies in its simplicity and reliability, it does exactly what it’s designed to do, consistently. A minor weakness is that magazine fit can be slightly tight initially, requiring a break-in period.

The Safariland 77 exceeds expectations for a basic magazine pouch. It’s a no-frills, highly functional piece of gear.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 77’s design is straightforward and utilitarian. It uses quality materials that are rugged yet lightweight.

The pouch is relatively compact and doesn’t add excessive bulk to the duty belt. The plain black finish is professional and understated. There’s virtually no learning curve. It’s intuitive to use, making it a great choice for both experienced and new officers/shooters.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS is built to last. It’s constructed from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Maintenance is simple, requiring minimal effort to keep it clean and functional. It should withstand years of service with basic care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s a fairly simple piece of gear. However, its modular design allows it to integrate seamlessly with other Safariland duty gear components.

While not directly customizable, its compatibility with various belt widths and handgun magazines makes it adaptable to different loadouts. Users can pair it with other Safariland holsters and accessories for a cohesive duty rig.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2HS